Evan Phillips, 8, was struck and killed in a scooter accident the evening of July 3 in a Menifee neighborhood. According to a news report in The Press-Enterprise, the fatal crash occurred in a residential community in the 29000 block of Shadow Hills Street. A preliminary investigation indicated that the boy was riding a scooter near the front yard of a home when he entered the roadway and was struck by a vehicle heading west on Shadow Hills, police said.
The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and cooperated fully with officials who have not yet released the identity of the driver. Menifee police are investigating this fatal crash. Anyone with information about this crash is urged to call the police at 951-723-1690.
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family of Evan Phillips for their heartbreaking loss. Please hold them in your thoughts and prayers.
Unanswered Questions
This is indeed a shocking accident and frightening because it could happen anywhere – even on a quiet residential street such as this one. There are a number of questions here that have not been answered. The speed limit in residential streets, particularly ones where children play, is usually 25 mph or 35 mph.
It is not clear how fast this driver was going. California’s Basic Speed Law prohibits drivers from going over the speed limit or driving at a speed that is unsafe given the roadway, traffic or weather conditions. It is also not clear if the driver, in this case, was distracted, impaired, or driving in a manner that was negligent or reckless.
Liability Issues
In cases where the driver was negligent, he or she can be held financially responsible for the damages and losses caused in addition to facing criminal penalties where applicable. In addition, if a dangerous or defective roadway caused the accident, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining the roadway can be held liable for the injuries, damages, and losses as well.
Any personal injury or wrongful death claim against a governmental entity must be filed within 180 days of the incident. Families of victims in such cases would be well advised to contact a Riverside County personal injury lawyer who will analyze all aspects of the incident and make sure their legal rights and best interests are protected.
Source: https://www.pe.com/2022/07/03/child-fatally-struck-by-vehicle-in-menifee/
